Arrivals Guide Contents

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Tips for preparing for the adventure of a lifetime! ARRIVALS GUIDE CONTENTS

GETTING READY Departure checklist 3 Kia ora and Your luggage 4 What to pack 5 welcome Banking and insurance 6 Welcome to the Southern Institute of Technology! Flying to New Zealand 7 You are about to embark on an exciting Arriving 9 adventure, one that will lead you to the future of your dreams.

WELCOME TO NEW ZEALAND To help you start off on the best foot, we have prepared this Arrival Guide. It has Your first days 10 lots of important information to help your Your new city move here. Invercargill 12 Once you arrive at the SIT campus of your choice, we will also provide you Queenstown 14 with our International Student Handbook Christchurch 16 and a comprehensive orientation programme. Orientation 18 If you have any questions, please Two weeks accommodation 19 don’t hesitate to ask the team at SIT Staying safe 20 International. I look forward to welcoming you on campus soon. NEW ZEALAND LIFE Adapting to life in New Zealand 22

What is a New Zealander? 24

Kiwi expressions 25

Common Māori words 27 Penny Simmonds Chief Executive

CONTACT DETAILS My notes 28 SIT campus contact details 29 My personal details 29

Put all your important details here

2 GETTING READY DEPARTURE CHECKLIST

A few things you may need to arrange before you depart

Valid visa and passport Important phone numbers Make sure you have a student visa from Put our contact details into your phone or address Immigration New Zealand and that your passport book now so you know how to contact us if you is valid. It must be valid for three months past the need to. You can use the last page of this guide to date that you intend to leave New Zealand. record important information.

Copies of important documents Open a NZ bank account We recommend you make photocopies of You don’t have to wait till you arrive in New important documents (e.g. birth certificate, Zealand to open a bank account. You can do it passport cover page, credit cards, insurance before you depart. See page 6 for details. information, travel itinerary). That will make it easier to get replacements if you lose them. If you make three copies, you can leave one set at home Carry on ITEMS with family, pack one in your luggage and carry one in your cabin bag. Sometimes bags can get delayed, so make sure you have essential items in your carry on bag. See page 5 for further advice on what to take in Health and medication your cabin bag. Before you leave, you may want to go to your doctor and dentist to get checked. Don’t forget Tell us when you will arrive to bring any medication you need. Follow our advice on page 4 if you intend to bring medicines We need to know when you will be arriving so with you. we can book your medical and travel insurance, accommodation and airport pickup. So let us know as soon as your flights are booked! Transit visas If your flight stops in another country on the way to New Zealand, you may need a transit visa for that country. Check with your travel agent or with that country’s immigration department whether you need one.

3 YOUR LUGGAGE

Travel smart and pack sensibly by following this advice

Don’t pack too heavy What not to pack Before you begin packing, make sure you check your New Zealand has very strict laws on what you can airline’s policy about luggage size, weight, allowable bring into the country. You must not bring in: items and any other rules. Most airlines allow about • Any animals or insects (alive or dead) 20 kilograms for luggage, plus 7 kilograms for any bags you carry onto the plane (cabin bags) but do • Feathers check with your particular airline. • Shells • Plants Medicines • Flowers If you need to bring medicines into New Zealand, • Fresh foods, including meat here’s what we recommend: • Some packaged goods, such as certain cheeses. • Keep medicine in the original, labelled containers • Bring copies of any prescriptions and the common names for the medicine If you have any of the above, you must declare them to Customs when you arrive. All food items brought • Get a note from your doctor explaining your need into New Zealand, even the smallest amounts, need to to take the medicine. be declared. Failure to declare could result in a fine or prosecution. There are also limits on quantities that you can bring in. Some medicines are illegal in New Zealand. The Customs staff at the airport may want information To find out more about what you can and cannot bring about any medicine you have with you. If you have in, check online at www.biosecurity.govt.nz. Remember any doubts that the medicine you take may not be to tell friends and family about New Zealand’s strict legal in New Zealand, you should check with the New laws if they are sending or bringing you parcels. Zealand Embassy in your home country.

Security Your luggage will need to go through security clearances during your journey, and you and your bags may be searched when you arrive in New Zealand. Be sure to pack your own bags and know the contents of your luggage. Label all your bags with your name and contact details.

Travel smart 1. Pack your own bags and know the contents of your luggage

2. Label all your bags with your name and contact details 3. Pack essential items, like a change of clothes, in your cabin bag 4. Never carry packages or baggage for strangers 5. Declare all and any food you have to the New Zealand Customs Service 6. Do not bring any illegal drugs into New Zealand

4 Packing list

Here are some suggestions on what to pack

Clothing Things to remind you of home

New Zealanders dress for the occasion, so we Recipes for your favourite dishes recommend you bring a range of clothes – from formal to informal. Familiar items from home, e.g. favourite music, books and DVDs A selection of general clothing, such as jeans, t-shirts, socks, shoes and underwear Photos of your family and friends Light clothes for summer, like shorts, skirts, caps A book with photos and facts about your home and sandals country Warm clothes for winter – particularly if you want to go skiing – such as jerseys, jacket and hat Other things A suit or smart clothing for job interviews and If you wear glasses, pack an extra pair and bring events your glasses or contact lens prescription Casual clothing for outdoor recreation activities Toiletries A good dictionary (if English is not your first language) Electronic equipment Souvenirs to give new friends Laptop or notebook computer National dress Mobile phone. These can be more expensive in New Zealand than in some other countries although there are a number of cheap phones you For your cabin bag can buy. Most major brands of mobile telephones will work in New Zealand, although you may Passport and airline tickets need to purchase a SIM card once you arrive Change of clothing (at least underwear), Adaptors for New Zealand’s electric sockets (if toothbrush and other personal items you might you are bringing electronic devices). You can need if your luggage is delayed or lost or you are also buy adapters when you get to New Zealand kept waiting for a flight Camera for capturing all your awesome Warm sweater or jacket experiences! Travellers’ cheques and/or bank cards Enough cash for your first week (US$200-$300) Important personal documents (keep a copy of these in a separate bag) Contact details for your family and your SIT Power to you campus Address of where you will be staying in New If you are bringing your own electrical Zealand devices to New Zealand, you may A pen to fill out documents for arrival need a power plug adaptor. These can be easily found in electronics and airport shops. New Zealand power outlets accept power plugs with three flat pins, one of which is an earthing pin (this is simply a safety measure). Some power plugs don't have the earthing pin but they still fit into the power outlets.

New Zealand power plugs look like this 5 Insurance BANKING

Your travel and medical insurance is covered when you You can open a New Zealand bank account, and enrol with SIT. Simply pay your fees, tell us when you transfer money to it, before you depart your home will arrive and we book your insurance for you. Easy! country. Once you arrive, you will be able to activate As soon as you have done that, we will send you your account by visiting your local branch. information on your insurance policy, including

information on coverage, insurance policy number and Major banks in New Zealand how to claim. KiwiBank www.kiwibank.co.nz

Why do I need insurance? ANZ Bank www.anz.co.nz You need insurance in case anything goes wrong Bank of New Zealand www.bnz.co.nz while you are travelling to or living in New Zealand. Westpac Bank www.westpac.co.nz This may include losing personal effects or requiring medical care. The New Zealand Government requires ASB Bank www.asb.co.nz all international students to have comprehensive medical and travel insurance. Simply search the bank’s website for “international student” to find how to open an account before you depart and the products and services the bank will What about insurance for my family? provide for you. If you are bringing family members with you to New Zealand, you will need to purchase travel and medical insurance coverage for them. The team at SIT International can recommend appropriate insurance policies for your family members.

Mail

If you don’t know your address, you can send your mail to SIT International. We will hold it at reception until you can claim it. Just be sure to let us know to expect the mail and don’t send any perishables!

Postal address: Bag 90114, InvercargillYour name, 9840, c/- SITNew International, Zealand Private

Physical address: Tay Street, Invercargill Your 9840,name, Newc/- SIT Zealand International, 133

6 Flying to NZ

It may take a few hours to get to New Zealand, but the experience while you’re here more than makes up for it. Simply fly into Christchurch or Auckland airports and catch a domestic Air New Zealand flight to the SIT campus you will be studying at.

Book to your end destination We strongly recommend that you book your flights right through to your end destination (i.e. the airport closest to your SIT campus) as part of your international booking. Purchasing connecting tickets on arrival in Avoiding jetlag New Zealand can be very expensive and we will not be able to arrange your accommodation and airport If you are flying a long distance through several time pickup since we won’t know when you are arriving. zones, you may experience jetlag. Jetlag is caused by disturbance to your body’s 24-hour clock. It can result in tiredness, insomnia (the inability to sleep), Airport pickup disorientation and irritability. Common problems associated with flying are dehydration, cramps and One of the benefits you will enjoy at SIT as an swelling. international student is a complimentary airport pick up from the airport closest to your SIT campus. A SIT representative will meet you at the airport to take you Here are some simple tips to help you reduce the to your accommodation. Once you have booked your effects of jetlag: flights, simply let us know when you will be arriving. Please make sure you give us at least several days • Adjust to the time of the country you are headed advance notice. for. If you are going directly to New Zealand, set your watches and clocks to New Zealand time as soon as the plane leaves the ground so you can Delayed arrival? start adjusting to the change. If your flights have been delayed and you will not be • Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water and juices arriving at the time you told us, please advise us so we to prevent dehydration. Avoiding coffee, tea and can rearrange your airport pickup. alcohol will help. Call the SIT International reception: • Stretch and walk. It is important to get up and move as much as possible to help blood Phone: +64 3 211 2699 extension 8826 circulation – about once an hour except when Freephone within New Zealand: 0800 478 839 you are sleeping. extension 8826 • Sleep. Close the window shade and sleep during the night hours of your destination city, even if it is still daylight outside the aircraft. Earplugs and sleep masks help to block out noise and light. Many airlines provide these items on international flights. • Wear comfortable clothes and socks. This makes sleeping during the flight easier. • When you arrive in New Zealand try to stay awake until at least 10pm. If you must sleep during the day, do so for no more than two hours. This helps your body clock to adjust and reduces the effects of jetlag.

We look forward to welcoming you fresh and relaxed!

7 New Zealand’s national carrier Air New Zealand is our national airline carrier and the most convenient way to get around the country. We recommend you book your domestic flights with Air New Zealand as part of your international flight booking.

Air New Zealand www.airnewzealand.co.nz

Fly via Auckland Auckland You can catch a number of flights into Auckland Airport. From there it’s just an hour and a bit to fly to our Christchurch, Queenstown or Invercargill campuses. You can fly into Auckland via Air New Zealand, Aviaco, Emirates, Jet Star, Cathay Pacific, Qantas, American Airlines, British Airways, Air China, Virgin Australia, Asiana Airlines, Singapore Airlines, China Southern, Air Canada, China Eastern, Lan Star, Lufthansa, South African Airways, Korean Air, Air Tahiti Nui, KLM, Air Pacific and Aircalin. Auckland Airport www.aucklandairport.co.nz

Queenstown

Fly into Queenstown Christchurch Welcome to New Zealand’s adventure capital! You can reach SIT’s Queenstown campus by flying from Fly into or via another New Zealand airport or from Christchurch Australia. There are regular flights to If you’re studying at our Christchurch Queenstown from Christchurch and campus, welcome! If not, you can Auckland. easily catch a connecting flight to our Air New Zealand, Jet Star, Virgin Queenstown or Invercargill campuses. Australia and Qantas fly to Invercargill You can fly into Christchurch Airport Queenstown Airport from Australia. via Air New Zealand, Air Pacific, Queenstown Airport Emirates, Jet Star, Qantas, Singapore www.queenstownairport.com Fly into Invercargill Airlines and Virgin Australia. A warm Southern welcome to SIT’s Christchurch Airport main campus! Air New Zealand flies www.christchurchairport.co.nz into Invercargill from New Zealand’s other cities on a regular basis every day. Reclaim your bags, take the five to ten minute drive to the centre of the city, and it won’t be long before you are settled into your new accommodation. Invercargill Airport www.invercargillairport.co.nz

8 Arriving in NZ

What to expect when you arrive at the airport in New Zealand

1. Complete your arrival card 3. Go through immigration During your flight you will be given an arrival card After leaving the plane, take your completed arrival to complete. The arrival card will ask you for your card and passport to the customs counter for personal details. It will also ask you what goods checking. you are bringing into the country.

4. Reclaim your bags 2. Declare your goods Collect your bags from the baggage reclaim New Zealand has very strict laws about what you area. There are monitors to show which carousel can bring into the country. If you are unsure of is being used for your flight. You can use the free any item in your luggage, declare it. There is no trolleys/carts to help move your bags. There are penalty for declaring items, but a NZ$200 instant separate collection locations for oversized or fragile fine if you do not declare. baggage items. If you are carrying any food items you must declare Your bags will be checked by highly-trained that on the arrival card and during the biosecurity biosecurity dogs in this area. They can detect check. Note you can leave any food items on specific agricultural, horticultural and animal the plane or deposit them in the large bins in the products, such as fresh fruit, meat and eggs. airport before you get to Customs. Items that must be declared include: 5. Biosecurity control • All and any food, food products and Take your bags and arrival form to the biosecurity ingredients check. If you have something to declare, use the • Plants and parts of plants (alive or dead), red lane. If you have nothing to declare, use the including cane, straw and rattan green lanes. • Animals (alive or dead), or products from Your arrival card will be checked and your bags animals x-rayed or searched by biosecurity inspectors. Remember, if you are unsure of any item in your • Equipment used with animals luggage, declare it! • Camping gear, golf clubs, hiking boots • Prescription medication. 6. Transfer to the domestic terminal The items listed above are just some examples, so it is important to read and understand the information If you need to catch a connecting domestic flight, provided on the arrival card. you will need to transfer to the domestic terminal. There are clear signs pointing you in the right direction, but do not hesitate to ask for directions.

Lost luggage 7. Look for your SIT airport pickup Once you have arrived at your end destination, On occasion, luggage gets lost during international keep an eye out for the friendly SIT representative travel. Generally the airline finds the luggage and who will be waiting to take you to your returns it to the owner within a day or two. If your bags accommodation. You will recognise them by their are lost, contact the airline you flew with. You will be sign and their SIT jacket. asked to fill out a form that includes a description of your bag (size, colour, material, design, brand etc) and the address to which you are doing. Once the bag is found, it will be delivered to that address, usually free of charge.

Top tip: Take a photo of your bags before check-in so, if they get lost, you can show airline staff what they look like. 9 EW - N ZEA ND LA A N L D H T U O S

yo re ur futu WELCOME TO NEW ZEALAND Your first days

You’ve arrived, yay! Then what? Here’s what we recommend:

• Contact your family to let them know you have • Get to know your host family roommates or other arrived safely students sharing your accommodation

• Eat, sleep and exercise. Try and follow your usual • Make sure you have key contact details daily rituals programmed into your phone

• Get to know your new environment. Walk The emergency number for Police, Ambulance, around the city, catch the bus, find your way to and Fire is 111 SIT, explore the campus and ask your host family or other students for information on how to get SIT’s international reception is 03 211 2699 around and what to see. extension 8826

• Find out where your closest convenience store, SIT’s emergency phone number is 0800 SIT 111 supermarket and post office are located

10 The essentials on arrival

Currency exchange If you make a non-local call within New Zealand, you will need to dial 0 before the region code. For When you arrive in Christchurch or Auckland you will example, if you call SIT International from somewhere find Travelex Currency Exchange offices at the airport else in New Zealand, you would call to change your money. You can also exchange major 03 211 2699 extension 8826. currencies at other bank branches. You can withdraw New Zealand dollars at any automatic teller machine If you call a New Zealand number from overseas, you (ATM). must drop the first 0 that appears as part of the area code. For example, instead of calling +64 03 211 2699, you must call +64 3 211 2699. Mobile phones On arrival, you can buy a new phone and connection To call overseas plan from one of New Zealand’s mobile network To call overseas from New Zealand, you need to dial providers. If you have brought your mobile phone from 00 before the country code (eg. 0065…) or, if you are home, you can purchase a SIM card to access a New using a mobile, a + before the country code Zealand network. You can choose to pre-pay (pay (eg. +65…). for your phone calls in advance) or pay on a monthly basis.

New Zealand mobile network providers Internet 2 Degrees www.2degreesmobile.co.nz Most students will be able to access the internet on Telecom New Zealand www.telecom.co.nz arrival at their accommodation. Once you have completed your enrolment requirements and obtained Vodafone New Zealand www.vodafone.co.nz your SIT student identification card, you will be able to access SIT’s computer labs. Your student account includes 500MB of free internet use a week. You Phone cards can also access SIT’s wireless hotspots with your own devices. There are many phone cards available in New Zealand to make international and national phone Alternately, if you are flatting in a new residence which calls at a discounted rate. You will receive a phone does not have a connection, there are a number of card on arrival as part of your welcome pack. Further internet service providers you can organise an internet phone cards can be purchased at most service stations, connection through. SIT staff can help advise you of transport centres, supermarkets and dairies (corner possibilities. stores).

Supermarkets and food International calling codes Feeling hungry on arrival? Don’t worry; it shouldn’t New Zealand’s country calling code is +64. Each be too difficult to find some food. Supermarkets like region in New Zealand has a different code before the Countdown, New World and Pak n Save sell groceries phone number. and essential household items. Probably closer to you new home will be dairies or Area code examples: corner stores. They are small shops that sell a range of Invercargill 3 essential items. They are usually more expensive than supermarkets but closer to where you live. Auckland 9

Christchurch 3

Wellington 4

Queenstown 3

11 Invercargill

Invercargill’s compact city centre makes it easy to get around. The vast majority of our students choose to walk around town.

Here are some of the locations you may need to know in your first few days after you arrive:

G F

N SIT Apartments C R

I P SIT Sound

SIT Downtown O D Campus

Q S J SIT International A

K M SIT Flats SIT Main B Campus E

12 Transport Invercargill is a compact city with most major facilities within walking distance. Most of our students walk or cycle between our campuses, the shops and sporting and cultural facilities. You can also use bus or taxi services.

Taxis Blue Star Taxis is Southland’s largest taxi company, operating a 24 hour service 365 days of the year. Restaurants and takeaway shops in the centre city Phone: +64 3 217 7777 Web: bluestartaxis.co.nz D Barluca Pizza 57 Dee Street E Bombay Palace 68 Forth Street

Buses F Box of Noodles 136 Dee Street Canton Restaurant Invercargill City Council operates regular bus services G 146 Dee Street across the city. Fares range from $2-3 for a single H Curry Guru 231 Tweed Street adult ride to around $60 for a monthly pass. You can get bus timetables and purchase tickets from SIT’s main I Devil Burger 16 Don Steet administration office. You can also see Invercargill City J Duo Restaurant 16 Kelvin Street Council’s website for information on bus routes or call for timetable information. K Little India 11 the Crescent Phone: +64 3 218 7170 L McDonalds 200 Dee Street Web: www.icc.govt.nz M Mevlana Kebabs 37 Esk Street N Thai Saigon 122 Dee Street

Food and dining Here are some of the main food outlets in the centre Banks city. There are many more, but these are some of the larger establishments just five to ten minutes walk from The centre city has branches and automatic teller The Grand Hall of Residence and the SIT Apartments. machines (ATMs) of all New Zealand’s main banks. Don’t forget you can open a bank account even before you arrive in New Zealand. Supermarkets in the centre city A Countdown 172 Tay Street O KiwiBank 51 Don Street 8am – midnight P ANZ Bank 42 Kelvin Street B Pak n Save 95 Tay Street Q Bank of New Zealand 84 Esk Street 8am – 9pm R Westpac Bank 154 Kelvin Street C Priya Spice & Herb 96 Spey Street Mon – Fri, 10am – 6pm S ASB Bank 63 Esk Street

Police You can find the Invercargill Central Police Station at 117 Don Street or call +64 3 211 0400. For an emergency (fire, ambulance or police), phone 111.

Shops You can find most clothing shops along Esk, Dee and Don Streets in the city centre. For an assortment of items at reasonable prices, try The Warehouse at 70 Leven Street.

13 Queenstown

Welcome! As you fly in through the mountains and see Lake Wakatipu, you will get a glimpse of this wonderful place you will call home for a while. Prepare to be very excited!

Here are some of the locations you may need to know in your first few days after you arrive:

JG FIH

SIT Campus

F N OK L M

A E

B D

SIT Campus

14 Transport Banks Queenstown has branches and automatic teller machines (ATMs) of all New Zealand’s main banks. Buses Don’t forget you can open a bank account even before Connectabus runs frequent services, every 10 to 15 you arrive in New Zealand. minutes, to and from the Remarkables Park Town Centre where the Queenstown campus is located. The bus stop is approximately two minutes walk from H KiwiBank P o s t S h o p , F r a n k t o n campus. You can collect a timetable and information L ANZ Bank 8 1 B e a c h S t r e e t , Queenstown on fares at the Queenstown campus. M Bank of New Zealand Remarkables P a r k T o w n C e n t r e N Westpac Bank Terrace Junction (Frankton Roundabout) Taxis O ASB Bank Remarkables Park Town Centre Queenstown Taxis: +64 3 450 3000 Green Cabs: 0508 4 47336

Police You can find the Queenstown Police Station at 11 Camp Street, Queenstown, or call +64 3 441 1600. For an emergency (fire, ambulance or police), phone 111.

Shops You can find most clothing shops at Remarkables Park Town Centre or in Queenstown. For an assortment of items at reasonable prices, try The Warehouse at Remarkables Park Town Centre.

Food and dining Here are some of the main food outlets close to the Campus.

Supermarkets near SIT Queenstown campus A New World Remarkables Park Town Centre 8am – 9 pm

Restaurants and takeaway shops near SIT Queenstown campus At Remarkables Park Town Centre: B Hamills Restaurant & Bar C La Vina Café D Thaitanium – Thai Restaurant E The Coffee Club Café At Frankton Roundabout – approximately 20 minutes walk away: F McDonalds G Burger King H Nandos Chicken Restaurant I Bombay Palace – Indian Restaurant J Subway

15 Christchurch

Christchurch is New Zealand's second-largest city and the gateway to the South Island. Bordered by hills and the Pacific Ocean, it is situated on the edge of the Canterbury Plains that stretch to the Southern Alps.

Here are some of the locations you may need to know in your first few days after you arrive:

C B

SIT Campus

16 Transport Food and dining Christchurch is a flat city with regular bus services if There is a wide range of food outlets close to SIT’s you don’t want to walk or cycle. It has a number of Christchurch campus. cycleways which can be located from Go to www.christchurchcity.org.nz to view some of the www.metroinfo.co.nz options.

Taxis Supermarkets near the SIT Gold Band +64 3 379 5795 Christchurch campus: First Direct +64 3 377 5555 Blue Star +64 3 379 9799 A Hornby Hub 418 Main South Road Green Cabs 0508 447 336 B Church Corner Countdown Corner Riccarton and Yaldhurst Roads C Westfield Mall 129 Riccarton Road Buses Environment Canterbury (ECan) operates regular bus services across the city. Banks Major bus services include: The Centre City and all Malls have branches and • The Number 83 Hei Hei bus stops at the rear automatic teller machines (ATMs) of all New Zealand’s driveway of SIT’s Christchurch campus main banks. • The Orbiter circulates the outer city seven days Don’t forget you can open a bank account even before a week in both directions. It calls at Eastgate you arrive in New Zealand. Mall, The Palms, Northlands Mall, Canterbury University, Westfield Riccarton, Barrington Mall, Princess Margaret Hospital, and St Martins shops. • Metro Star runs to and from the west and east Police of the city. From Halswell in the West, it calls at You can find the Christchurch Central Police Station at Hornby Mall, University of Canterbury, Westfield the corner of Hereford Street and Cambridge Terrace, Riccarton, Merivale Mall, The Palms, QEII Stadium phone: +64 3 363 7400. For an emergency (fire, before arriving at New Brighton in the East. ambulance or police), phone 111. • The City Flyer service will whisk you to or from the airport to catch or meet your flight. There are two separate routes, one to and from the city centre and one to and from Cashmere. Shops Christchurch has a full range of shops in suburban You can find information on routes, fares and services shopping malls and the central city business area. at www.metroinfo.co.nz All needs are catered for – from budget items to haute couture. Go to www.christchurchcity.org.nz to see some options.

17 Orientation

SIT runs comprehensive orientation programmes for international students. You will gain essential information and advice to make the most of your time here.

During your orientation programme you will finalise • Information on employment, including your your study documents, meet SIT staff, learn about rights and how to adapt to the New Zealand accommodation options, explore our facilities and employment market be introduced to your programme. Your orientation Key community representatives may also speak to you programme may also involve a city tour, farm visit and during orientation. Please don’t hesitate to ask any fish and chips on the beach – a great taste of Kiwi life! questions during orientation – we’re here to help. You will receive orientation details and timetable when you arrive at the airport and are taken to your accommodation. Jackets and bags On arrival you will be issued with a SIT jacket and What you will cover book bag as well as a first aid kit and phone card so you can call home. They’re yours to keep. During orientation you will be introduced to key members of the SIT team and advised how you can book appointments or contact us. Student ID cards We will also cover: Once you have completed the enrolment process, you • Introduction to New Zealand culture, including will be issued with a student ID card. This allows you culturally appropriate behaviour withdraw books from the SIT library and print material. It will also allow access to our computer suites. There • Transport arrangements and driving in New are a number of retail stores which offer student Zealand discounts when you present your student ID card. • Important laws and regulations you need to be aware of • Advice on flatting and what you can expect with Student lounges accommodation SIT’s campuses have a range of student lounges • Information on the surrounding urban and rural that you can use. Refer to the campus maps for the environments location of these. At the Invercargill campus, there is a dedicated international student lounge near SIT • How to undertake routine activities of daily living International offices. It has tea and coffee making • Banking information and how to open a bank facilities, microwaves for heating food and computers account for checking your email. • Information about cultural, recreational and sporting activities • Your rights, including how to make a complaint • How to access academic and other support • Managing your finances • Health and medical treatment • How to keep safe • Management of emergency situations, including emergency numbers

18 Two weeks accommodation

SIT is pleased to provide all international students with two weeks accommodation on arrival. Your two weeks stay also includes meals.

When you arrive, you will be given 14 nights accommodation at either a Kiwi Homestay or approved accommodation provider. This will vary according to the campus at which you study. To book your two weeks accommodation, email us with your arrival details in advance.

Homestays You can stay with an approved Kiwi Homestay at our Invercargill, Queenstown and Christchurch campuses. During your two weeks accommodation, you will be provided with breakfast, a packed lunch and an evening meal. Please note that if you choose to stay in a homestay, a minimum six week stay applies. If you do not wish to stay in a Homestay, you can choose to stay at the Grand Hall of Residence SIT's Grand Hall of Residence, in Invercargill or approved accommodation in just 5 minutes walk to campus Queenstown and Christchurch. Please contact us for information on accommodation in Queenstown and Christchurch. The Grand Hall of Residence, Invercargill The Grand Hall of Residence is SIT’s Hall of Residence situated right in the centre of the city. Accommodation The Living Space is in single or shared rooms with ensuite bathrooms. Apartments Residents receive two cooked meals a day provided in a communal dining room. You will receive cleaning services, laundry facilities, security and wi-fi. Please note the Hall of Residence is strictly alcohol and smoke free. Contact: 76 Dee Street, Invercargill Manager’s phone: +64 3 214 4055 Email: [email protected] Student phone: +64 3 218 9410

After two weeks During orientation, you will be provided with advice on accommodation options for after your first two weeks. You may be able to remain at your accommodation or you may choose to find other accommodation. If you are staying with a Kiwi Homestay, you continue with them for another four weeks.

19 Staying safe

New Zealand has an international reputation as a safe and friendly country, but you still need to take precautions as you would in other countries.

For example, look after your belongings, do not carry large amounts of cash and avoid doing things you know are against the law.

New Zealand laws The laws operate to protect the rights of all people in New Zealand, including visitors and international students. It is important to be aware of New Zealand laws and abide by them, as ignorance of law is not an accepted as an excuse for law breaking in New Zealand.

The police The police in New Zealand uphold the law and prevent crime. The police force in New Zealand is honest In an emergency phone 111 and it is a crime to offer a bribe (money to ignore or overlook a crime) to a member of the police. You can An emergency is when there is a: find out more about New Zealand Police at • death or a life-threatening situation www.police.govt.nz • crime being committed • fire or serious accident.

The 111 phone call is free. The person answering will ask which service you need (Fire, Police or Ambulance). Be ready to tell them who you are, what has happened and where you are. If someone is injured and needs to go to hospital, an ambulance will LAND come for them. EA Z W E SIT emergency phone N

- SIT operates a free 24/7 emergency phone for international students. You can call this phone at any D time, but only in emergencies (and remember that you N should call 111 for the emergencies above).

L The number is 0800 SIT 111.

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O S t u f ur yo

20 Safety tips Being aware of your safety helps reduce your risks.

Never leave your valuable possessions where they Safety in public places could be stolen or damaged. • Avoid walking around alone at night and stay • Protect your wallet, keys and cellphone. If your with a group. Going out with someone you trust cellphone is stolen ask the provider to block the lessens your risk of being a victim of crime SIM card immediately. If your belongings are • Let someone you trust (someone you live with or stolen, contact the police and make a police report a friend) know where you are going. Plan for a friend to pick you up, or use a taxi, rather than walk alone at night. Money • Keep to areas where there are other people and • Open a bank account as soon as possible. Do not that are well lit at night. Avoid vacant spaces, keep large sums of money in your room or flat, or parks or shortcuts through alleys or waste ground, carry them around and do not walk close to arcade entrances or places where a person might be hiding. • Take care when using ATM machines. Make sure no one is watching you and put your cash away • Body language is important. A person who is safely confident, walking upright and quickly is less likely to become a victim of crime. There may be times • Never keep your PIN number with your eftpos when it is best not to walk through a group of (ATM) card. If your credit or eftpos card is stolen, people. Cross the road to avoid contact. inform the card provider immediately • Check street signs so you know where you are. • Do not borrow or lend large amounts of money That way, if you need to call the Police, you can be easily located. Contact details • Don't travel in any vehicle if you think the driver is an unsafe driver, has consumed alcohol or has • If you are going to be away from your home for a been using drugs period of time, make sure a flatmate, friend or SIT International staff member can contact you in case of an emergency. Personal belongings • Always keep your email address, telephone • Always lock or secure your room, flat or house number, address and emergency contact information up to date with SIT International. You • If you go out, keep your possessions with you or can find change of contact details forms on the have someone you can trust watch them for you. International Reception.

Your embassy Embassies, high commissions and consulates throughout the world have a responsibility to assist their citizens in foreign countries in times of crisis, and also to provide information on what is happening at home. It is a good idea to register with your embassy so your government can provide support for you in the event of an emergency or let you know about affairs at home. You can find details of your country’s representative in New Zealand from the SIT website. You can also find information on the website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade: www.mfat.govt.nz

21 Adapting to NZ life

New experiences, new situations, new ways of doing things. Living in a new country can be both exciting and challenging. Whether this is your first time overseas or you have lived abroad before, prepare yourself for life in New Zealand by following this helpful advice.

Research • Try to become familiar with New Zealand culture before you depart • Get to know some of the language and local ways of doing things (read our summaries over the page) • Read about culture shock and how it may affect you

Find ways to meet new people • Be open-minded to meeting new people • Smile! Make yourself someone others want to meet • Be outgoing and initiate conversations • Find opportunities to stay busy

Organise things to do • Exercise regularly. Go for a walk, go for a swim or join the gym. You will feel better and increase your chances of meeting new people Plan and set goals • Find a way to be physically active. There are • What do you want to achieve while you are in always sporting and recreation clubs that are New Zealand? Perhaps it is exploring Fiordland looking for new members. Find one that looks fun National Park, learning about Māori culture or and join getting an A in your course. Setting goals can help you focus and reduce feelings of culture shock • Plan weekend activities or trips. Go on our free weekend bus trips from Invercargill • You will soon be busy with assignments so plan your holidays in advance. Make sure you don’t • Get involved with other international students or miss the opportunity to explore our amazing Kiwis. Go along to a game of rugby or netball country

Talk to family and friends • Keep in touch with your family and friends – don't isolate yourself • Talk to them about your experiences; the fun and the frustrations • Share your photos and experiences with friends and family on social media

22 Reflect and be patient • Talk to the team at SIT International about your experiences. They can provide you with advice or • Keep a journal to record your thoughts and point you in the right direction feelings. This can be a good way to keep perspective • Talk to our on-campus counsellors. They have lots of expertise you may be able to benefit from • Remember adjusting to a new culture will be challenging • Give yourself a break. Take time to adapt to new Choose your attitude concepts and ways • Have an attitude of acceptance and be open • Have plenty of ‘me’ time. Make sure you get minded to new things. Be realistic about your plenty of relaxation, sleep and exercise expectations and don’t be too hard on yourself • Find something to laugh about. Your sense of humour is a valuable asset. No matter how bad Ask for help things may seem, there is always a funny side to • Ask questions. Questions are the best way to get focus on. And laughter is a great way to make answers! friends! • Kiwis will generally be happy to try and explain cultural differences if you ask politely. It may also be a good opportunity to talk about differences in your own culture

Your success in a new culture depends on your attitude and ability to adapt. Apply the steps above to understand and thrive in New Zealand culture. Your life-changing experience awaits…

Top tips What is culture 1. Join a club or society before you leave for New Zealand. It’s a great shock?

way to follow your interests and give Culture shock is the term that describes how you might yourself something to do after you feel after you have arrived in a new country. Feelings arrive you may experience can include confusion, depression, loneliness, anger, tiredness, anxiety, loss of appetite and 2. Keep in touch with your family a desire to return home. This is a normal reaction but is temporary. Follow the tips on this page to help you and friends. Organise to talk to make the most of your time in New Zealand. them on Skype and share photos of your experiences on social media sites such as Facebook

3. Plan your time. New Zealand has so many stunning environments to explore you will need to plan ahead to fit it around your studies

23 What is a New Zealander?

• Generally New Zealanders are casual and or when help has been given relaxed, and dress informally on most occasions, including when we go to cafes or shopping • New Zealanders find spitting and littering offensive. Some can get upset if they see people • Many New Zealanders have a quite direct and do this frank way of speaking • New Zealanders mostly speak quietly when on public transport or in public spaces, even when with friends

• Appointments are made in advance to see professional people (e.g. to see a doctor or lecturer)

• Many New Zealanders have pets, most commonly a cat or dog

• New Zealanders can be passionate about sport, particularly rugby. Playing sport is a great way to make friends with New Zealanders

• Young New Zealand people (over 18 years of age) often get together in pubs, bars or cafés • People are usually very happy to answer rather than in restaurants, which can be costly questions, so don’t be shy • It is acceptable not to drink alcohol when • Personal privacy is important and subjects such as socialising salary, mortgages and age are not often discussed by New Zealanders. These topics are not usually discussed outside of the family

• New Zealanders can be offended if people stare (look closely) at them. Staring may be considered rude and aggressive

• New Zealanders can be offended by personal comments such as “you have put on weight”, “she is skinny” or “his hair is very grey”

• Tipping is not expected in New Zealand. Some cafes and restaurants have a container for tips

• Generally New Zealand people do not bargain when they go shopping. For larger items such as cars, expensive electrical appliances or even bicycles there can be a range of prices and it is acceptable to ask for a discount for cash. It may be acceptable to bargain at open air markets

• Generally people in New Zealand, especially • New Zealanders don’t carry much cash as adults, like to hear people say “please” and electronic methods of payment are widely used “thank you” when paying for goods and services

24 Kiwi expressions

Why don't you go flat out, sit down with a cuppa and take a squiz at our mean as list of Kiwi slang…

Every society develops its own phrases and ways of Cuz Term of address for friend expressing things and New Zealand is no exception. or relative We thought we would help you get a head start with some of our more colloquial expressions you may Dag An amusing person, a character encounter. Dork An idiot or a physically uncoordinated person Awesome Fine, excellent Dough Money Barbie Barbecue (also written as BBQ) - food cooked outside over a Drive around Annoy so much you lose charcoal or gas fire the bend your temper

Beaut, beauty Something good or outstanding. Drongo A term of abuse, idiot Often used ironically to mean the opposite Dude A cool or good looking male

Bro Term of address for a male Feed A meal friend or relative Flat tack At top speed Bright as Looking fresh, alert a button Foxy, fox Used to describe a cool or good looking person of either sex Bright spark Intelligent, alert, attentive, awake Fully I agree Bring a plate Everyone brings food to share. Don't bring an empty plate. G’dday Greeting meaning hello

Bush New Zealand's native forest Got the blues Used to describe a sad state of mind Bushed, had it Exhausted Greenie A conservationist BYO Bring Your Own. A BYO restaurant is a restaurant Gumboots Waterproof rubber boots that allows customers to bring their (called Wellingtons in Britain) own wine to drink with their meal. Grog Alcohol Chocka Full Grouse Fine, excellent, often used Choice Fine, excellent to express delight

Clean as Sparkling clean Hard case A tough but likeable person, an a whistle eccentric person

Clown Term of abuse, idiot Hard graft Hard work

Crib A holiday home (also known as a Head over heels Usually describing somebody who bach in the North Island) is very very happy

Crook To be ill or unwell. Also means a Heart of gold Describing a person who thief is very kind

Cuppa Cup of tea (or coffee) Hook up Meet up or join in

25 Hoon A noisy person, a lout Rapt Very pleased

In a spin Usually when too many things Rellie A relation or relative happen all at one time or too many choices Rough ride A difficult experience

Jandals Rubber sandals or thongs (called She'll be right Everything is going to be OK flip flops in Britain) Shocking Very bad Joker A man Shout To treat your friends to something Kiwi New Zealand native bird symbol. such as a drink or a meal New Zealander Skite To boast. A boaster or show-off Lo l ly The usual word for a confection or sweet Smoko Coffee or tea break

Mate A friend, also a term of address Snowed under Usually has too much work or responsibility Mean as Fine, excellent (also just “mean”) Spuds Potatoes Mission An adventure Squiz Have a look Mongrel A term of abuse or contempt for a person Sticks Remote or rural district, the countryside Munted To be broken or distorted Stinge/Stingy Not generous with your money Narley Cool, good Stoked Very excited Nerd A boring person Sweet as Great Nifty Good (applied to a thing) Swot Study hard, especially before an No worries Common phrase of agreement exam

On to it Efficient or intelligent Ta / Taa Thanks

On a high A good feeling that can come The Mainland The South Island from success To take for To deceive or trick someone Once in a Very rarely, seldom, almost a ride blue moon never Togs Swimming costume Paddock A field, also a sports pitch Tucker Food Paint the To go out and have a good TOWN red time Turn to custard Collapse of ideas, schemes, plans

Piker Someone who opts out of an Unc/Unco An uncoordinated person, often activity used as an insult or taunt

Pop on over Come and visit me at my house Under the Feeling off colour, unwell, tired / pop in weather

Potluck dinner Everyone brings prepared food to Veggies Vegetables share with all the guests Wicked Fine, excellent Pressie A present (gift) Wop-wops Remote or rural district, the Pub A bar where alcoholic drinks are countryside served over the counter

Check out www.newzealandslang.com for more examples of common New Zealand expressions. 26 Common MAori words

MAori are the indigenous people of New Zealand. MAori culture, traditions and language all make an important contribution to New Zealand society.

Here is a list of Māori words you are most likely to Mihimihi Greeting come across during your time in New Zealand: Pakeha The Māori word for non-Māori people

Aotearoa The Māori name for New Rangatira High-ranking person Zealand. Roughly translated it means ‘Land of the Long Reo Language White Cloud’ Tamariki Children Haere mai Welcome Tāngata whenua (Local) people of the land Haere rā Goodbye Tangi Funeral Hangi Traditional way of cooking food, where the food is cooked in Taonga Values (spiritual, personal) and the ground physical treasures

Hongi To press noses, a formal greeting Tapu Sacred

Hui Meeting to discuss a special topic Tēnā koe How do you do?

Iwi Tribal people Te reo The language (Māori)

Kai Food Tiriti Treaty

Ka pai Good Waka Canoe, vessel

Kia ora Māori greeting, also used as an Wānanga University expression of gratitude and agreement Whānau Family Whare Mana Prestige, authority, status House, meeting house on a marae Whenua Land Marae A Māori communal facility (generally consisting of a meeting house, dining hall, kitchen, and ablution area) SIT students at graduation in cloaks reflecting their Maori heritage Land of the Long White Cloud

The Māori name for New Zealand is Aotearoa which loosely translates as Land of the Long White Cloud. Legend has it that New Zealand was first discovered by navigators noticing a long white cloud on the horizon. Today, Aotearoa is commonly used, includingāori in before our national anthem which is sung in M

English. 27 MY NOTES

My study goals:

Clubs I will join when I get to New Zealand:

When I’m in New Zealand I want to visit…

New Zealand books to read: New Zealand movies to watch: The Penguin History of New Zealand The Hobbit by Michael King The Lord of the Rings Mr Pip by Lloyd Jones The World’s Fastest Indian The Bone People by Keri Hulme Boy Whale Rider by Wihi Ihimaera Filmed with Avatar An Angel at My Table by Janet Frame SIT staff and Sione’s Wedding students! Two Little Boys

28 Contact details

Invercargill campus Christchurch campus 133 Tay Street, Invercargill 60 Waterloo Road, Hornby, Christchurch Postal address: Private Bag 90114, Postal address: PO Box 2488, Christchurch 8082, Invercargill 9840, New Zealand New Zealand Phone: +64 3 211 2699 extension 8826 Phone: +64 3 349 3645 Freephone within NZ: 0800 478 839 extension 8826 Freephone within NZ: 0800 TO STUDY (0800 86 78839)

Queenstown campus Level 2, Dart House, Remarkables Park Town Centre, Hawthorne Drive, Queenstown Postal address: PO Box 2607, Wakatipu 9349, New Zealand Phone: +64 3 442 5375 Freephone within NZ: 0800 QT 4 SIT (0800 784 748)

My details Record your important contact and personal details here:

My name:

My phone number:

In case of emergency (ICE) contact:

Passport number:

Insurance provider:

Insurance number:

My blood type:

Medications:

My travel agent:

My airline:

My embassy in New Zealand:

Other contacts:

29 LAND EA Z W E N

Remember to: L

e H

T r U

u O

1. S t Label your bags with your contact details u f 2. Book your flights to your end destination ur yo and let us know when you will be arriving

3. Get ready for the time of your life!

SIT International international.sit.ac.nz [email protected] Phone: +64 3 211 2699 extension 8826 Freephone within New Zealand: 0800 478 839 extension 8826 After hours emergency contact: 0800 SIT 111